Boulder police are investigating a Boulder-based landscaper who is accused of stealing more than $100,000 from a family had hired him to complete an extensive re-design of their backyard. Derek Thiess, 28, operates businesses under the following names: Bolder Landscape Creations, LLC; Bolder Creations, LLC; and Boulder Creations Landscape and Design, LLC.

The investigation stems from a complaint by a couple in southwest Boulder who agreed to pay Thiess $126,000 to re-landscape their property. The couple has alleged that Thiess failed to follow the landscape architect's plans, brought in bulldozers that damaged their property and over-excavated the land. When they confronted Thiess, he agreed to fix the problems if the couple signed a new $226,000 contract. They did, but the work was not completed. The negotiations ended up with a series of threats that resulted in the couple obtaining a restraining order against Thiess. The complainants estimate that repairing the landscaper's damage and completing the unfinished project will cost them between $120,000 and $150,000.

Boulder police are continuing to investigate the allegations. No charges have been filed against Thiess at this time and he has not been arrested. Investigators are aware, however, that there have been additional complaints against Thiess.

Anyone with information about this suspect or his businesses is asked to contact Detective Traci Cravitz at 303-441-3330 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours, please call the non-emergency dispatch line at 303-441-3333. Those with information who wish to remain anonymous should contact the Northern Colorado Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or 1-800-444-3776.

Tips can also be submitted via the Crime Stoppers Web site at www.crimeshurt.com. Those submitting tips through Crime Stoppers that lead to the arrest and filing of charges on a suspect(s) may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 from Crime Stoppers.